Aya, a small town in the green highlands inland from Miyazaki city, is renowned as one of Japan’s leading eco-towns, built around the protection of its magnificent natural forest. It holds Japan’s largest surviving expanse of primeval evergreen laurel (broadleaf) forest, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, best experienced from the Aya Teruha Suspension Bridge — one of the highest pedestrian suspension bridges of its kind — which spans a deep green valley with spectacular views over the forest canopy. Long committed to organic, pesticide-free farming, Aya is also known for its craftspeople, with workshops producing pottery, woodwork, textiles, glass and more in an artisan village, and for its local sake and shochu, made using the area’s pure spring water at a traditional brewery you can visit and taste at. Green, tranquil and creative, Aya offers a refreshing blend of nature, craft and local flavour.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Aya, Miyazaki |
| Hours | Bridge/brewery daytime |
| Admission | Bridge fee; brewery varies |
| Time needed | Half day |
| Best time | Fresh green & autumn colour |
What to See
- Japan’s largest evergreen laurel forest (UNESCO reserve).
- The soaring Aya Teruha Suspension Bridge over the valley.
- Craft workshops for pottery, woodwork and glass.
- Local sake and shochu from a traditional brewery.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with the Miyazaki mango of the region.
- Pair with the Saitobaru burial mounds inland.
- Read our Miyazaki overview .
Getting There
- By car: the practical way to Aya inland.
- By bus: services from Miyazaki city to Aya.
Tips
Walk the Aya Teruha Suspension Bridge for the spectacular views over the laurel forest canopy, especially beautiful in fresh green or autumn colour. Visit the craft village workshops and the sake/shochu brewery for a tasting, buy organic local produce, and combine it with a relaxed inland day away from the coast.
